What is Robotic Laparoscopy?

A major disadvantage of conventional or non-robotic laparoscopy is that the instruments have limited range of motion, making more complicated surgical tasks, such as suturing, difficult to perform. Robotic, computer-assisted, laparoscopic surgery incorporates 3-D, high-definition camera system. It allows the surgeon to have a better instrument control and precision, and better dexterity than was previously possible with conventional laparoscopy. The most useful application of robotic laparoscopy in infertility surgery is the removal of uterine fibroids  (myomectomy).

How is Robotic Laparoscopy done?

• The operation involves making 5 small skin incisions through which 5 ports are inserted into the abdominal cavity to accommodate a camera and several surgical instruments.
• A 4-arm robot is draped with sterile drapes and is ready for docking (Fig.1).
• The robot is fully docked to the surgical instruments and the surgeon is ready to begin the operation (Fig.2).
• During robot-assisted surgery, the surgeon sits comfortably at a console by the patient's bedside (Fig.3), executing delicate robotic movements with finger tip control(Fig.4).

Robotic Assisted Laparoscopy to remove a fibroid (myomectomy) 

• The fibroid  is injected with a solution to prevent bleeding during surgery (Fig. 5).
• The uterus is cut open to expose the fibroid (Fig.6).
• The fibroid is grasped and removed from the uterus (Fig. 7).
• The uterine incision is closed with sutures and the operation is completed (Fig. 8). 
• The surgeon performs the entire surgery and is in full control of the robotic functions throughout the procedure.

Robotic Surgery - the benefits

• Avoiding major surgery.
• Shorter hospital stay.
• Less pain.
• Faster recovery.
• Quicker return to normal activities.
• Less risk of wound infection.
• Less blood loss.
• Less scarring.

Robotic Surgery - the risks

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood transfusions
• Post operative adhesions and infertility
• Uterine rupture during pregnancy
• Risk of cesarean section delivery